A Wing or a Weight?

Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. Hebrews 12:1

I heard about a great concert violinist who was asked about the secret to her great performances. She answered, “Planned neglect. Anything that would keep me from practicing and playing well must be neglected.”

I think that some of us could use some planned neglect in our lives because there is a lot more junk in them than we may realize. If you don’t believe me, then try moving from one house to another. Isn’t it amazing how much junk you have collected? The same is true in our lives. We take on things we don’t need. Periodically, we needed to jettison this excess weight and let it go.

When the race of life gets difficult, we like to blame circumstances, other people, or sometimes even God. But we need to remember that if we stumble or fall, it’s our own fault. The Bible says that God, by His divine power, “has given us everything we need for living a godly life.” (2 Peter 1:3 NLT)

The Bible also tells us to lay aside the weight and the sin that hinders our progress (see Hebrews 12:1). Notice the distinction: we aren’t just to lay aside the sin; we also are to lay aside the weight. I suggest asking yourself this question: Is this preoccupation or activity in my life a wing or a weight? In other words, does it speed me on my way in this race I am running? Or is it a weight — something that slows me down?

David had the right idea when he prayed, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV)

Used by permission from Harvest Ministries with Greg Laurie, PO Box 4000, Riverside, CA 92514. Greg is the senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, CA and is the host of the daily radio program, “A New Beginning”. Daily devotionals can be received via e-mail by subscribing at www.harvest.org.